Ava Dovesi, her mum Joanne and optician Daniel Herbert

A nine-year-old from Edinburgh has received life-saving treatment after a quick-thinking optician spotted warning signs during an eye test.

Joanne Dovesi said her daughter Ava had experienced months of blurry vision, headaches, fatigue, motor skills issues and, more recently, a limp.

She asked her optician’s advice during Ava’s routine appointment at Specsavers in Morningside resulting in the youngster being referred to hospital.

Optometrist Daniel Herbert had spotted severe swelling of Ava’s optic discs (known as bilateral papilodaema) caused by pressure inside the skull.

He says: “I recommended that Ava visit the hospital immediately as vision loss can result if the underlying condition causing swelling of the optic nerves is not treated.

“She was referred to the Royal Hospital for Sick Children where a diagnosis meant doctors could give her the treatment and medication she urgently required.”

Joanne said: “The surgeon told us that fluid had been building up for a long time. Ava’s head was so swollen it was almost the size of an adult male.”

Six months on from the operation, Ava’s optic nerves have returned to normal.

Grateful mum Joanne thanked all concerned and said: “I have seen a huge change in Ava since the operation.

“She is no longer tired after school, her balance is perfect and she is a bright, cheery child full of life.

Optometrist Daniel said Ava’s story was a reminder of just how important it is to seek expert advice.

He added: “Ava’s diagnosis is a reminder that it is essential to seek a professional opinion if you experience anything unusual – don’t ignore warning signs.”

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